Christina Hendricks, best known for her role in Mad Men, has become almost synonymous with her iconic red hair. However, she wasn’t always a redhead. In a recent interview with The Wall Street Journal, the actress shared how she developed her signature fiery shade at a young age while also discovering her passion for acting.
Hendricks explained, “Little by little, I began to discover myself. In town, there were artsy stores and thrift shops, where I created a persona.” Although she was originally blonde, Hendricks was inspired by actresses like Ann-Margret and Lucille Ball. Her mother suggested she try a red rinse, and that was the start of her transformation into the redhead we all recognize today.
In the same interview, Hendricks also reflected on her time starring in Mad Men. She revealed that she originally auditioned for the role of Peggy Olson, which ultimately went to Elisabeth Moss. However, Hendricks decided not to pursue the part, feeling she was “too old” for the role.
“I auditioned for Joan, the office manager, and Midge, Don Draper’s extramarital beatnik girlfriend,” Hendricks said. “I thought Midge was the sexier and more exciting role, but we ended up with Joan.”
The actress also shared that she tends to be drawn to darker roles. This is why her latest project, Good American Family, caught her interest. “I’m most comfortable unpeeling the sorrow that lives in all of us,” Hendricks explained. “Perhaps there’s a little sadness in me that translates into my work.”
In Good American Family, Hendricks plays Cynthia Mans, starring alongside Grey’s Anatomy alum Ellen Pompeo and The Morning Show‘s Mark Duplass.
